-feeding versus formula-feeding. These factors include the historical, social, psychological, and biological context within which the mother resides. A discussion of practical issues of breast-feeding and available formulas is also presented.
The discussion of breast-feeding versus formula feeding includes a presentation of the history, cultural contexts, psychological implications, pros and cons of breast-feeding, human milk composition, and infant formulas.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has been an advocate of breast-feeding for optimal nutrition for infants. The Standards and Recommendations for the Hospital Care of Newborn Infants, a manual published by the Academy in 1948, recommended that mothers nurse the fullterm infant. In 1976 the Academy outlined steps to encourage breast feeding such as educational programs for adolescents and pregnant women and changes in employment policies to make breast-feeding practical for working mothers. In 1978 it was recommended that physicians, nurses, nursing personnel and hospitals must examine their practices regarding breast-feeding. Today's lifestyles tend to discourage breast feeding however, it was recommended that pediatricians encourage the practice (ACP, 1982, p. 654).
The existence of massive malnutrition in Third World countries stimulated interest in breast-feeding as an important remedy for infant mortality. Marketing of infant formulas in developed countries is considered a major influence in the decline of breast-feeding. The World Health Organization (WHO) Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes aims for safe and adequate nutrition for infant, with the promotion of breast feeding and the ensuring of proper use of breast-milk substitutes when necessary. However, the WHO Code tends to narrowly focus on marketing practices of formula manufacturers (ACP, p. 654; & Hay, 1991, p. 281).
Social, economic, and motivational factors that affect breast feedi...